The Sikkim Legislative Assembly will continue without opposition as Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) candidates withdrew from the by-elections for two seats, leaving Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) uncontested. This move occurred shortly after Citizen Action Party (CAP) nominations were disqualified over filing issues. SKM’s Prem Singh Tamang, having vacated Soreng-Chakung for his son Aditya Golay, noted, “SKM was confident that I would win uncontested, but I preferred to contest.” CAP alleged SKM intimidation, but Golay dismissed the claim: “The Election Commission is independent; allegations hold no ground.”
Following SDF candidate Daniel Rai’s withdrawal, he cited dissatisfaction, saying, “The party leader was busy touring Nepal, and I got no response.” With SKM now controlling all 32 Assembly seats, Golay plans to surpass SKM’s previous voting records and prioritize youth development, saying, “In the future, even if I am not contesting, we will ensure the next candidate breaks that record.”
As Satish Chandra Rai assumes the Namchi-Singhithang seat, he emphasised his commitment to “improve drinking water supply and drainage.” Rai added, “We had prepared the road map for campaigning… but the opposition candidate withdrew for reasons best known to him.” The CAP, meanwhile, has expressed intentions to pursue legal action, arguing, “Supporters were kidnapped by the SKM,” claims Golay has firmly denied.
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With SKM’s uncontested hold, Sikkim’s political landscape faces substantial transformation, reshaping governance under Prem Singh Tamang and signaling a strategic reorientation for the opposition.